Bristol parent is pulling son out of London school trip following terror attack – is she right?

People running down Borough High Street after the London Bridge terror attack

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A concerned parent has sparked a heated debate after pulling their son out of a school trip to London after the latest terror attack.

The unnamed parent took to Facebook to say they would not be allowing their son, who is in year three at Hareclive Primary School in Hartcliffe, to visit the Natural History Museum with his classmates.

Instead they are planning to take him to the AtBristol science museum and have invited other parents concerned about safety in London to join them.

The parent’s comments have prompted a fierce debate with some backing the decision, while others suggesting they are giving in to terror.

Seven people were killed in the London terror attack which took place on Saturday night and 36 people are still being treated in hospital.

A white van mounted the pavement on London Bridge and hit several pedestrians shortly before 10pm.

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Three men armed with knives got out of the van and stabbed several people in Borough market.

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The attackers – which police are understood to have now identified – were all shot dead at the scene. A bystander was also shot by police and is receiving treatment.

So called Islamic State have claimed responsibility for the attack.

In the post, which was uploaded on to the ‘Spotted in South Bristol’ Facebook page, the parent said: “In the wake of another attack on London, I am even more convinced not to allow my son to attend the London trip they have planned.

“I will be writing an e-mail to the school tomorrow requesting, that instead, I am allowed to take him to AtBristol as the original trip will be to the Natural History Museum, I believe this is the best local substitute and prevents him from staying at school feeling left out.

“If anyone else would like to join us please let me know and I will add your name and child's name to the e-mail. Which may help our case for them to allow it, without consequences for any of us.”

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The statement has attracted more than 20 comments from parent’s and other Facebook users discussing the parent’s actions.

Nikk Higgins said: “If you stop your child going on the trip, then the terrorists will have won. How many people were in London at the time of the attack? It's very unlikely they'd be attacked? If all their friends go, they'll still feel left out going to AtBristol. And, yes, I'm a parent.”

Police officers on Borough High Street as after the terror attack

Rochelle Perks added: “Really security will be higher than ever and you’re showing your child that they are winning. Fair enough you are worried and scared but don't let them ruin your child's learning and fun.”

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Others pointed out that similar terror attacks could take place in Bristol.

However the unnamed parent did gain support from mothers who said they would act in the same way.

Paula Damsell said: “It's all good saying ‘if you don't let them go then the terrorists have won’, but then how would you feel if your child got caught up in it if you did let them go? No way would I risk letting my kid go, it's not my life at threat it's theirs and I would protect them any way I could.”

Kate Williams added: “My daughter is in year 3 in Hareclive and even though she will learn a lot from the trip and enjoy herself I will not be letting her attend.”